Floating Restaurant Reopens With Grandeur

Sail through some of New York’s most iconic landmarks with a cocktail in one hand and a fork in the other while aboard Hudson’s. The floating restaurant reopened in early May with a new name (formerly Fish Bar) and a more extravagant ambiance.

“We came out with the Fish Bar concept [in 2016] but we found that we had a lot of people who wanted more,” said Sam Kimball, chief marketing officer of New York Cruise Lines. “They wanted the really elegant, luxurious experience.”

Kimball believes the renovations, updated menu and ability to drink cocktails in the yacht, which exudes a “special occasion spirit,” will satisfy these cravings for an upscale night out.

The first deck includes a curved main bar and secondary bar with little stools for seating. Around them, plush lounge seating with upholstery and multiple windows allows for outdoor views from nearly every angle. The views are just as accessible on the second level where dining takes place.

The Mediterranean-themed menu from Chef Anthony Rodriguez has a little something for every foodie. Offerings include lamb meatballs, wild mushroom pappardelle, beet salad and fillet of branzino. Pair any meal with creative cocktails like the Elyx Sunrise (Elyx vodka, orange, cranberry, passion fruit, mint) or the Rosemary Discovery (Hendricks gin, rosemary, passion fruit). Or opt for the brunch cruise on Sundays (12:30-2:30pm) where guests are offered unlimited buffet full of options like French toast and fettuccine and all-you-can-drink mimosas.

Hudson’s rooftop deck is bringing even more fun to warm evenings. It even remains open until 12am on Thursday through Saturday after the yacht docks at Pier 81 on West 41st Street. Hudson’s is looking to hire a DJ to keep people dancing all night.

But the scenic route is the biggest appeal here. The yacht sails through the New York Harbor giving guests an up close and personal look at the popular sights like the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge. And there are plenty of opportunities to head out since Hudson’s will be open year round and offer cruises Tuesday through Sunday from about 6:30-8:30pm during warmer months. It will sail less frequently in the winter.

“There’s no better way to see New York City and step back and experience the awesomeness and the grandeur of the city than getting out on the water and then looking back at it,” Kimball said.